Computer programs as a formal definition of a desired method or outcome (algorithm) are cornerstones in almost any current product design. Those programs are then mechanically translated and executed on a computer.
The course introduces the art of programming in small steps, starting from clearly structuring the required data. Typed functions, conditional expressions, and repetition (recursion) are introduced alongside as the basic methods to operate on this structured data. A key aim is to illustrate the interdependancy of algorithms and data structures - significantly, that data structures largely determine algorithms, for example, that products are processed by projections, unions by alternatives, and that recursive data structures such as lists are processed by recursive algorithms.
Programs also require time to execute in a computer system. Basic understanding of the relation between program design and execution time is an essential part of an efficient design.
For all but the simplest programs, some means of abstraction and structuring is required to manage the complexities faced by programmers, as individuals and as groups. The course introduces modularisation techniques and abstract data types, as a means of managing such complexity. Modular design is of fundamental and practical importance for program development and leads to elegant and maintainable programs.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
Students who succeed in all aspects of this course will be able to:
- describe and contrast various algorithmic components, and relate them to specific corresponding data structures.
- analyse program fragments and explain their types, behaviours and effects.
- design algorithmic solutions to simple problems and present their implementation in a functional programming language.
- design data structures appropriate for the representation and implementation of simple algorithmic problems.
- analyse small programming problems to suggest, design and implement appropriate modular program structures, based on a data-directed approach.
Mapping of Learning Outcomes to Assessment and Professional Competencies
Indicative Assessment
Continuous Assessment (40%); Examinations (60%)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
Twenty two one-and-a-half-hour lectures, ten two-hour tutorial/laboratory sessions. At least the same amount of time will be required to work through the material, and prepare labs and assignments.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Assumed Knowledge
Students are assumed to have achieved a level of knowledge of mathematics comparable to at least ACT Maths Methods major or NSW 2 unit maths or equivalent.
Areas of Interest
- Business Information Systems
- Digital Arts
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Electronic Commerce
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Robotics
- Advanced Computing
- Information Systems
- Human Centred Computing
- Information - Intensive Computing
- Intelligent Systems
- Software Development
- IT in New Media
- Algorithms and Data
- Artifical Intelligence
- Computer Systems
- Computer Engineering
- Computational Foundations
Majors
Minors
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2015 | $3096 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2015 | $4146 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1406 | 16 Feb 2015 | 06 Mar 2015 | 31 Mar 2015 | 29 May 2015 | In Person | N/A |
